EU COMMISSION
Swiss reject population cap in referendum, avoiding EU clash and cheering business
Swiss voters have rejected a proposal to limit the nation's population to 10 million. The decision prioritizes economic stability and continued free movement with the European Union. This outcome signals Switzerland's commitment to openness and reliability. Concerns about immigration and public services remain, prompting further analysis of potential solutions.
EU Commission looking at practical consequences of Anthropic decision, spokesperson says
The EU is scrutinizing US export controls on advanced AI models, citing potential discrimination against partners. AI firm Anthropic is disabling its top models for foreign nationals due to national security concerns. The European Commission emphasizes the need for non-discriminatory measures and Europe's technological independence.
Europe rolls out new migration system: Here's what you need to know
The EU's new Pact on Migration and Asylum is now in effect, introducing mandatory screening for irregular arrivals and border asylum procedures for specific applicant categories. This reform aims to harmonize asylum processing, speed up decisions, and establish a mandatory solidarity mechanism to share responsibility among member states during migration surges.
EU countries agree to maintain compensation paid to passengers for flight delays
EU member states have agreed to maintain the current three-hour flight delay threshold for passenger compensation, rejecting a proposal to extend it to four hours. They also aim to enhance transparency by requiring airlines to include carry-on bag fees in basic ticket prices, with options for discounts if consumers opt out.
US Justice Department clears Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros
The U.S. Justice Department has approved Paramount Skydance Corp's massive $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. This regulatory green light comes as several states prepare to challenge the deal in court. Paramount argues the merger will boost competition. However, concerns persist within Hollywood regarding job losses and storytelling diversity.
How Canada's draft chatbot law stacks up on global scene
Canada's proposed law requiring chatbot providers to protect users from "harmful" content is the latest step by global governments to regulate the sector. There are also many state-level bills, including one passed in New York that would require protections for minors against harmful content as well as so-called "sycophancy" and age verification requirements for chatbots.
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EU countries weigh 'tearing apart' bloc's diplomatic service, FT reports
France and Germany are in talks to reform the European Union's 15-year-old diplomatic service. The goal is to enhance the bloc's ability to handle geopolitical crises. Discussions involve potentially shifting powers away from the EU's chief diplomat and the External Action Service. These powers could be returned to the European Commission and individual member states.
Neighbours and world leaders hail PM Modi's milestone
Prime Minister Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim extended his congratulations on the milestone and described it as a testament to Modi's years of dedicated public service and leadership. He reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and expanding opportunities for the people of both countries. President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen in her message said that under Modi's leadership India has not just landed on the moon but is also shooting for the stars. From South Korea, PM Modi got a special message from President Lee Jae-myung for his role in India's development and progress and expressed confidence in further advancing the Korea-India Special Strategic Partnership.
Paramount, Warner Bros deal under EU subsidy scrutiny, decision due July 14
A massive $110 billion deal for Warner Bros Discovery by Paramount Skydance Corp faces European Union scrutiny. Gulf sovereign wealth funds are backing this takeover. The EU competition enforcer will decide by July 14 whether to approve the deal or launch a full investigation. This subsidy review is expected to be less complex than the merger review.
EU order against Meta may last until June 2029, EU antitrust chief says
A key EU order for Meta Platforms to allow rival AI chatbots access to its WhatsApp messaging app will continue. This decision stands as the European Union investigates competition concerns. The order could remain effective for several years, potentially until 2029. EU antitrust chief Teresa Ribera stated Meta's proposals to resolve these issues were unconvincing.
EU orders Meta to open WhatsApp to rival AI chatbots for free
The EU ordered Meta on Tuesday to give rival AI chatbots access to its WhatsApp platform for free within five working days as it carries out an antitrust probe, or risk a heavy fine. The EU had warned Meta it faced interim measures if it did not open WhatsApp to rival AI assistants in February.
No tech rule exemption for Apple, EU regulators say amid spat over Siri AI delay
European Union regulators have rejected Apple's plea to delay the launch of its new Siri AI in the EU. Apple had sought an 18-month exemption, citing privacy and security concerns related to EU tech rules. Regulators state the decision rests solely with Apple, asserting that EU regulations do not prevent new product introductions.
EU rejects Apple blame for delayed Siri AI rollout
The European Union has rejected Apple's claims regarding the delayed launch of its AI-powered Siri. EU officials state that Apple alone is responsible for ensuring its products meet regulatory requirements. Apple had cited the EU's Digital Markets Act as a reason for not releasing Siri AI in Europe. The EU insists that the law does not prevent new product introductions.
EU clears continued imports of Indian aquaculture goods
India will continue exporting key products like fish and honey to the European Union. New EU regulations, effective September, allow these exports. This is a significant development for India's fisheries sector, with exports to the EU valued at $1.59 billion. India has worked to meet these enhanced requirements, ensuring continued market access.
From Australia to Europe, countries move to curb children's social media access
Nations worldwide are enacting strict rules for social media access by children. Australia has banned platforms for those under 16. Britain, France, and others are considering similar age restrictions. These measures aim to protect young users from online harms. Tech firms face new demands for age verification and content moderation.
India gets EU approval to export aquaculture products, eggs, honey beyond September
India will continue exporting aquaculture products, eggs, honey, and animal casings to the European Union. The EU has revised its regulations, with new rules effective from September 2026. This ensures ongoing market access for Indian exporters. The fisheries sector, a significant contributor with exports valued at USD 1.59 billion, will benefit. India has worked to meet the EU's enhanced requirements.
Armenia prepares for an election that could reshape ties with Moscow and the West
Armenia's parliamentary elections are a pivotal vote on its geopolitical future, with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan seeking closer EU and US ties amidst Russian warnings. Disappointment over Moscow's handling of the Karabakh conflict has soured relations, prompting Pashinyan to cautiously weaken ties with Russia and explore Western partnerships.
EU plans lower taxes on clean energy in drive to cut power bills
The European Union is set to propose new regulations next month. These plans aim to cut taxes on renewable energy and boost electricity system flexibility. High energy costs are a major concern for the EU economy. The proposals seek to lower excise taxes on electricity compared to natural gas. Targeted tax reductions for energy-intensive industries are also planned.
EU should side with Washington in 'AI war' with China, US envoy warns
America's top envoy in Europe has urged the European Union to stand with the United States in a critical artificial intelligence race against China. The ambassador voiced worries about the EU's plans to reduce reliance on American technology. He stressed that Western civilization's interests lie in an American victory in this technological contest.
ASML CEO says EU Commission should not try to direct 'strategic projects'
ASML CEO Christopher Fouquet said he supports most EU tech sovereignty proposals but warned against Brussels steering "strategic projects." He emphasised that industry needs should drive these projects, with firms best positioned to propose them, to prevent over-complication and bureaucracy. Fouquet praised the Commission's new focus on demand-driven policy.
Europe's tech 'liberation day'? Computer says not yet
The EU plan aims to boost European tech firms and limit some access for dominant U.S. rivals. It marks a key but initial step, with the bloc trailing far behind the U.S. and Asia on AI, chips, cloud services and data centres.
European Union launches tech sovereignty initiative to boost chips, cloud and AI at home
European Union leaders are boosting local tech production. They aim to reduce reliance on American AI and cloud services. Efforts are also underway to increase European microchip manufacturing. The bloc plans to triple data centre capacity in the coming years. This initiative seeks to ensure Europe's technological independence and future leadership.
EU plans energy standards for data centres amid concerns over soaring power use
The European Union is set to introduce minimum energy efficiency standards for data centres. This move comes as data centre power consumption is projected to more than double by 2030. These standards aim to manage the growing energy demand and support Europe's clean energy goals. The EU is also developing a sustainability label for these facilities.
EU could lose 1.3 million jobs due to energy price surge linked to Iran war, Commission says
European industries are bracing for significant job cuts. Up to 1.3 million jobs are at risk across automotive, construction, metals, chemicals, and transport sectors due to Middle East conflict. The automotive industry alone could see 600,000 layoffs. Energy-intensive industries are particularly vulnerable. Low-income households will also face higher transport fuel costs.
Court rules EU must drop strict curbs on Facebook Marketplace
The appeal before the EU's General Court in Luxembourg regarded the platforms' designation under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), one of several EU digital laws facing fierce criticism from US President Donald Trump's administration.
EU to unveil plan to wean itself off US, Asia tech
The EU will set out on Wednesday how the 27-country bloc hopes to slash its dependence on American and Asian technology, and favour European digital alternatives. The latest moves reflect a change in Brussels, not just moving away from regulating Big Tech but favouring European technology.
India questions EU-Pakistan remarks on Kashmir and silence on terror
India strongly objects to references on Jammu and Kashmir in a joint communique by Pakistan and the EU, asserting the region is an integral part of India. New Delhi reiterates that no external entity has a locus standi to comment on its internal matters, emphasizing its stance against third-party mediation.
EU paves way to allow migrant deportations to centres outside bloc
European Union lawmakers and governments have agreed on new rules. These rules permit sending rejected asylum seekers to centers outside the EU. Detention periods will be extended. Penalties for non-cooperation will be introduced. These include entry bans and fines. Some countries are already exploring setting up these 'return hubs'.
EU has had productive meetings with Anthropic over possible future access to Mythos
The European Commission has held productive discussions with Anthropic concerning future access to its Mythos AI product. The EU's cybersecurity agency, ENISA, is expected to gain access to Mythos. This AI tool is designed to identify vulnerabilities in computer code, enhancing defenses against cyberattacks. Initial concerns about the tool enabling attacks appear to be overstated.
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